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PREVENTATIVE MEDICINE

Child Vaccinations

All children should commence the immunisation programme from two months old. You will receive invitations to attend our child clinics. Click here for detailed information regarding childhood vaccinations.

Cervical Cytology

Women between the ages of 25 to 65 will receive an invitation for a cervical smear test. This procedure should be performed routinely at three to five year intervals depending on age. Smears will be done more frequently where necessary.

Family Planning

A full range of family planning is available at the surgery, including coil fitting and advice on safe sex.

Health Checks

Health checks are available for patients over the age of 25 years who have not had a check in the last three years. This involves an assessment of your risks for developing heart disease and a simple examination, e.g., blood pressure, urine check and cholesterol level if appropriate. This is particularly important if you smoke, or have a family history of coronary heart disease at an early age (less than 60 years). Our practice nurses will give advice and follow-up support on giving up smoking, losing weight, lowering your cholesterol levels and following a healthy lifestyle.

Influenza

Annual protection against influenza is offered to senior citizens and those at high risk, e.g., with chronic heart, chest, some breathing disorders, and diabetes.

Mammography

Women aged 50 to 70 years will be offered a mammogram every three years by Somerset Breast Screening.

Pre-pregnancy advice

Pre-pregnancy advice is offered by the doctors and midwife for those thinking of becoming pregnant. It is essential that you stop smoking, reduce your alcohol intake to a minimum, ensure an adequate daily intake of the vitamin folic acid in your diet, and check with your doctor about any medication you are taking. As a general rule don't take any drugs, including those bought over the counter, in pregnancy, unless advised by your doctor. All pregnant women should attend the antenatal clinic as soon as possible. We offer full antenatal and postnatal care in partnership with Shepton Mallet Maternity Unit.

Tetanus & Polio

Protection against tetanus and polio should be kept up to date. A full primary course with a booster at 15 should be followed by at least two boosters at 10 year intervals to protect throughout life.